Don't let your business miss out on opportunities for growth

Organised by the Government, Growth Hub Week is designed to celebrate the completion of the nationwide network of 39 hubs, which are already helping businesses to reach new heights. As part of this initiative, the Business Lincolnshire Growth Hub was launched last April. Run by Lincolnshire County Council and the Greater Lincolnshire LEP, the hub is a countywide one-stop advice shop for businesses looking for support to grow and become more competitive. It provides a single access point to a package of information, diagnostics, advice and business development programmes for businesses across the Greater Lincolnshire area, making it easier for them to access the support they need. The online web portal www.businesslincolnshire.com provides information for all business sectors, providing access to local, regional and national business information. Visitors can search for advice and grant schemes, support programmes, events and networks, as well as information on accessing finance, supply chain development, the e-learning portal and employing and training staff. Alongside the online information portal, the hub has a team of dedicated business growth and skills advisers, offering free, impartial advice to businesses and helping them to formulate and implement their growth plans. Over the last year, the three Growth Hub Advisers have undertaken detailed reviews and created action plans for more than 250 Lincolnshire businesses. Overall, they have introduced almost 700 businesses to the support available via the Growth Hub through a combination of events, presentations and one-to-one discussion. Coun Colin Davie, Executive Member for Economic Development at Lincolnshire County Council and Greater Lincolnshire LEP board member, said: “Small businesses are the backbone of our county economy, and we want to do everything we can to support them. “The Growth Hub is a `front door’ to the help that’s out there, and our team of expert advisers are on-hand to guide you through things. “I’m delighted so many county businesses are already making use of the new service, and am sure many more will benefit in future. “We’ve had people coming forward from across the county looking for support, many of whom are from small to medium-sized businesses looking to develop and grow. “We’ve helped those working in a wide range of industries and dealt with many different issues, such as securing grants, using digital technology, and finding new premises. “So if you want your business to grow, but need a helping hand, why not get in touch and find out how we can help your business flourish?” Business Minister Anna Soubry added: “Small businesses are the beating heart of our economy and this government continues to build the right environment for them to thrive. We will keep cutting red tape and business taxes, improving access to finance and broadband, and taking forward the measures in the Enterprise Act to cement our position as the best place in Europe to do business. “Growth Hubs have already helped thousands of businesses and, with the full network up and running, every registered business in England can access the expertise they need to succeed. The Business Lincolnshire Growth Hub will help entrepreneurs boost their business and create more jobs for people in the local area.” • For more on the Business Lincolnshire Growth Hub and the range of support available, visit www.businesslincolnshire.com.